How to know if you will be affected by the Digital TV Transition in 2009

Don't let your TV go dark. Be prepared for the DTV Transition occuring in 2009.

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Don't be left in the dark when the Digital TV Transition occurs on February 19, 2009. The DTV Transition refers to the date when all full-power broadcast TV stations will stop airing analog broadcasts and completely switch over to digital broadcasts. Television viewers unable to receive digital signals will not be able to view their TV programs. This article will help you determine if you will be affected by the analog to digital TV conversion.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Find out the source of your television broadcasts. Do you receive pay TV services such as satellite TV or digital cable TV? Or, do you receive free over-the-air broadcasts using an antenna?

Step2

Satellite TV and digital cable TV subscribers can relax. You will not be affected by the Digital Transition. However, if you are using an antenna to get free over-the-air signals, you will be affected. In order to view digital signals, you will need to purchase a digital converter box, which will enable your current analog TV to display the digital signals.

Step3

Converter boxes may be purchased from a variety of electronics retailers. If you are unable to afford a digital converter box, your household may qualify to receive up to 2 coupons from the government worth $40 each to put towards the cost of a converter box. Consumers may visit www.DTV2009.org or call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009)to apply for the coupon program now through March 31, 2009.

Tips & Warnings

To avoid the need of a converter box, but still receive free over the air signals, you will need to upgrade your current television to a newer model with a built in ATSC (digital) tuner.